Tapping assembly and connecting device; container and method for beverage dispensing

ABSTRACT

Tapping assembly for a beverage, including container including a first and second container, wherein the first container has a neck portion and the second container is suspended in the first container, from the neck portion thereof. A neck region of the container is provided with at least one opening in a side wall thereof, preferably in a neck region of the first container, opening into a space between the first and second containers. The assembly further includes a connecting device, connected or connectable to the neck portion, wherein the connecting device includes at least one connecting element for connecting to the at least one opening, wherein the connecting element is connected to a source of pressurized gas.

The invention relates to a tapping assembly for dispensing beverages.The invention especially but not exclusively relates to such tappingassembly for dispensing a beverage from a bag-in-container typecontainer.

The invention further relates to a connecting device for connecting adispense line or dispense tube or such dispense element and/or a gasline to a container.

The invention further relates to a container, especially of abag-in-container type, and a set of preforms for forming the same.

The invention further relates to a method for forming a container,especially of the bag-in-container type.

It is known to dispense beverages such as carbonated beverages,especially beer from a rigid metal or wooden container such as a keg,barrel or cask by feeding pressurised gas, such as CO₂ into thecontainer, forcing the beverage out of the container.

In an alternative system, as for example known from Heineken'sDraughtKeg® and disclosed in for example EP1064221, a beverage containercan be provided with an integrated, for example internal pressurizer,with which preferably automatically gas is introduced into the containerin order to pressurise the beverage for dispensing and maintain as muchas possible a constant pressure inside the container.

It has further been known, as is for example known from Heineken'sBeerTender® and disclosed in WO00/03944, to dispense beverages from abag-in-container type of container, in which a beverage is containedinside a flexible inner container, which is suspended in a more rigidouter container. In such system a pressurising gas can be inserted intothe container, between the inner and outer container, therebycompressing the bag or inner container, squeezing out the beveragewithout the pressurising gas coming into direct contact with thebeverage.

In EP2148771 an integrally blow moulded bag-in-container is disclosed,for holding and dispensing beverages, wherein at least one vent isprovided running parallel to an interface between inner and outercontainers, which vent opens to the atmosphere at a location adjacent toand orientated approximately coaxially with the bag-in-container'smouth. EP2148771 fails to disclose how this container is used in adispensing assembly, especially how this is to be connected to a tappingline or tapping device.

WO2011/002295 further discloses a system in which a container iscompressed within a pressure chamber, such that beverage containedwithin the container is dispensed. This requires a strong pressurechamber and an air tight closure of the pressure chamber to thecontainer.

WO2011/002294 discloses an integrally blow moulded bag-in-container typecontainer, wherein at a neck region of the inner container an opening isprovided, opening into a space between the inner and outer container. Aclosure can be provided, with a valve and a gas feed channel, connectingto said opening for feeding gas under pressure into said space. The fullgas pressure is therein exerted on the neck region of the outercontainer, in the neck region. In an alternative embodiment the openingcould be in the neck of the outer preform or container.

The present invention aims at providing an alternative tapping assembly,an alternative connecting device, an alternative container, analternative preform assembly and/or an alternative method for forming abeverage container. The present invention aims at providing a tappingassembly and parts therefore that provide for easy and safe use.

In a first aspect the present invention can be characterised by atapping assembly for a beverage, comprising a first and secondcontainer, wherein the first container has a neck portion and the secondcontainer is suspended in the first container, from the neck portionthereof. The neck portion of the second container can extend at leastpartly and preferably entirely within the first container, for examplewithin the neck region of the first container. This can be abag-in-container type of container. The neck portion of the firstcontainer is provided with at least one opening in a side wall thereof,opening into a space between the first and second containers. Theassembly can further comprise a connecting device, connected orconnectable to the neck portion. The connecting device comprises atleast one connecting element for connecting to the at least one opening,wherein the connecting element is connected to a source of apressurising fluidum, preferably a pressurised gas.

In embodiments the first container is more rigid than the secondcontainer, at least in body portions thereof, whereas the at least oneopening opens into said space in a substantially radial direction,perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the neck region. The connectingelement can connect to said at least one opening in substantially thesame radial direction. Preferably the connecting element is movablerelative to the opening, more preferably in said substantially radialdirection, between a release position spaced apart from the opening anda connecting position gastight connecting to said opening.

Another aspect of the invention can be characterised by a connectingdevice for connecting a dispense line and a gas line to abag-in-container type of container. The device can comprise a first partand a second part, movably connected to said first part. At least one ofthe first and/or second part is preferably provided with a couplingopening with coupling elements for connecting the device to a part of abag-in-container type container, preferably a neck portion of suchcontainer. In use the part to which the connecting device is connected,such as the neck part, can extend inside said coupling opening of theconnecting device. The connecting device is further provided with atleast one connecting element, movable between an extended position inwhich the connecting element extends at least partly inside saidcoupling opening and a retracted position in which the connectingelement extends less or not into said coupling opening. The connectingdevice further comprises a mechanism for moving the at least oneconnecting element between the extended position and the retractedposition, preferably by relative movement of the first and second parts.

The coupling opening can extend through the connecting device, wherein aconnector is releasable provided in one end of the coupling opening. Theconnector can comprise a coupler for opening a valve of a container towhich the connecting device is connected and a tapping line extendingfrom said connector. Alternatively the connecting device can comprise anopening in and/or through which a dispense line extends or can extend,which dispense line at one end is or can be connected to a dispenseadaptor for connecting to and opening the valve of a container to whichthe connecting device is connected. The end of the dispense lineopposite the container can be provided with a valve, especially anin-line valve. The dispense line and the dispense adapter can bedisposable.

Another aspect of the invention can be characterised by a container of abag-in-container type, wherein a neck region of an outer container isprovided with at least one opening extending substantially radiallythere through, leading directly or indirectly to a space between theouter container and part of an inner container adjacent thereto. Theneck region is provided with coupling elements, preferably at oppositesides of said at least one opening, seen in circumferential direction,for coupling of a connecting device thereto. These coupling elements arepreferably placed and/or designed such that they define a position of aconnecting device relative to the container such that a connectingelement of the connecting device is positioned correctly relative to theat least one opening.

Another aspect of the invention can be characterised by a method forforming a container, wherein a bag-in-container is blow mouldedintegrally from at least two super positioned preforms or an integral,multilayer preform, such that an outer container and an inner containeror bag are formed. Prior to or after blow moulding the container aclosure ring is spin welded onto the inner and outer container, closingoff a space between the inner and outer containers. Alternatively oradditionally the two preforms or containers can be welded, especiallyspin welded or otherwise connected to each other at the neck regions,closing off the space between the containers or preforms. At least oneopening is provided in a peripheral wall of a neck region of one of thecontainers, preferably the outer container, opening into said space, forintroducing gas under pressure into said space and compressing the innercontainer within the outer container. The inner container is filled withbeverage and a valve is mounted in or on an opening in said ring,opening into said inner container.

Preforms and preform assemblies will be discussed and disclosed too forforming a container.

In order to further elucidate the present invention, embodiments thereofshall be disclosed and discussed hereafter, with reference to thedrawings. Therein shows:

FIG. 1 in side view part of an assembly according to the disclosure,showing a neck region of a container with a connecting device, in afirst embodiment;

FIG. 2 in side view part of an assembly according to the disclosure,showing a neck region of a container with a connecting device, in asecond embodiment;

FIG. 3 in perspective view the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 in cross sectional side view along the line IV-IV in FIG. 3 thefirst embodiment;

FIG. 5 in cross sectional side view along the line V-V in FIG. 3 thefirst embodiment;

FIG. 5A in a view according to FIG. 5 an alternative embodiment,especially of the valve and of the container, for example according toFIGS. 14 C and D and FIG. 15A, wherein the connecting device has beenrotated such that the connecting elements are in engagement with thecontainer;

FIG. 6 in perspective view the embodiment of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 in cross sectional side view along the line VII-VII in FIG. 6 thesecond embodiment;

FIG. 8 in cross sectional side view along the line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6the second embodiment;

FIG. 9 a gas connecting unit of a connecting device, in perspectiveview, from a top and a bottom side;

FIG. 10 a cross sectional view of the gas connecting unit, taken alongthe line X-X in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10A in exploded view a gas connecting unit;

FIGS. 10B and 10C a cross sectional view of the gas connecting unit,taken along the line X-X in FIG. 1, and in exploded view, in analternative embodiment;

FIG. 11A-C a neck region of a container, in top view, cross sectionalview and perspective view respectively;

FIG. 12 a cross sectional perspective view of a closure ring;

FIG. 13 in partly transparent perspective view a connecting devicecoupled to a neck region of a container;

FIGS. 14A and B in top view and in cross sectional view along the lineA-A a preform assembly;

FIGS. 14C and D in top view and in cross sectional view along the lineA-A an alternative preform assembly;

FIG. 15 a detail of part of the preform assembly of FIGS. 14A and B, incross section, showing a closure ring mounted to the preforms;

FIG. 15A a detail of part of the preform assembly of FIGS. 14C and D, incross section, showing a closure ring mounted to the preforms;

FIG. 16 an exploded view of a preform assembly according to FIGS. 14A, Band 15;

FIG. 16A an exploded view of a preform assembly according to FIGS. 14C,D and 15A;

FIGS. 17 and 17A a container, within in phantom lines showing thepreform assembly from which the container is blow moulded;

FIG. 18 a detail in cross section of the neck region, comparable to FIG.15;

FIG. 18A a detail in cross section of the neck region, comparable toFIG. 11A.

FIGS. 19 A and B an embodiment of a pre-form set, assembled andpreassembling respectively;

FIGS. 19C and D a cross sectional view of the assembly according to lineB-B in FIG. 19A and a detail of FIG. 19C respectively;

FIGS. 20A and B another embodiment of a pre-form set, assembled andpreassembling respectively;

FIGS. 20C and D a cross sectional view of the assembly according to lineB-B in FIG. 20A and a detail of FIG. 20C respectively;

In this description embodiments are shown and disclosed of theinvention, by way of example only. These should by no means beinterpreted or understood as limiting the scope of the present inventionin any way. In this description the same or similar elements areindicated by the same or similar reference signs. In this descriptionembodiments of the present invention shall be discussed with referenceto carbonated beverages, especially beer. However, other beverages couldalso be used in the present invention.

In this description references to above and below, top and bottom andthe like shall be considered, unless specifically stipulateddifferently, to a normal orientation of a container standing on a bottompart and having a neck region comprising an orifice for filling and/ordispensing facing substantially upward. This is for example shown in thedrawings, especially FIG. 17, wherein top, bottom, up and down areindicated by arrows and appropriate wording, for indicative purposesonly. This does not necessarily reflect the orientation in which atapping device of the present disclosure or parts thereof have to beused.

In this description a bag-in-container has to be understood as meaningat least a container comprising an outer holder and an inner holder,wherein the inner holder is designed to hold a beverage and is moreflexible or compressible than the outer holder. The outer holder can forexample be a container, such as a bottle shaped container with a neckand a body, a box shaped holder or the like, whereas the inner holdercan be a flexible container, such as a bag. The inner and/or outerholder can be made of mono materials or blends, can be made entirely orpartly by injection moulding and/or blow moulding, rotation moulding orthe like. Preferably a bag-in-container according to the invention ismade by integrally blow moulding. In embodiments the bag-in-containercan be made by inserting at least one preform into another preform andthen blow moulding them together into a bag-in-container type container.In embodiments the bag-in-container can be made by over-moulding atleast one preform forming a multi layered preform and then blow mouldingthem together into a bag-in-container type container. In embodiments abag can be suspended inside an outer container, after forming the outercontainer and the bag separately, at least in part.

In the present disclosure by way of example a bag in container (BIC)shall be described, integrally blow moulded from a preform setcomprising two plastic preforms, super imposed, which should beunderstood as meaning that one of the preforms is inserted into theother, after which they are together blow moulded in a known manner intoa BIC. In embodiments prior to said blow moulding a closure ring isfitted over the preforms, connecting them together and closing off thespace, which can also be referred to as interface or inter space,between the preforms, such that at least after blow moulding said spaceis or can be in communication with the environment only through one ormore openings provided in a neck region of the container, especially anoutward opening, extending through a wall of the neck region of theouter preform and/or container. The said at least one opening can beprovided during manufacturing the preforms, especially during injectionmoulding thereof, but could also be provided later, for example bypunching, drilling or otherwise machining. In embodiments the ring canbe provided as an integral part of one of the preforms.

In this description a tapping assembly shall be described, comprising atleast a connecting device, a container, especially a bag in container(BIC) type container and a tap or such device to which the container isto be coupled, as well as a source of pressurised gas, such as air. Thetap and source of gas shall not be discussed explicitly, since these arecommonly known in the art. In advantageous embodiments as a gas to beintroduced into the container air can be used, for example pressurisedby a compressor, connected to the connecting device by a gas line,especially an air hose. As pressure fluidum other gasses can however beused, such as CO₂, or another fluidum, such as water. The fluidum can besupplied in any suitable way, as is known in the art. As a tap any fixedor mobile tap can be used, depending on for example the tapping lineused. In embodiments the tapping line can be a replaceable tapping line,especially a disposable tapping line, as for example used in Heineken'sDavid® system, as for example disclosed in EP1289874 or US2004226967, inwhich case a tap can be used to which the tapping line can be releasablycoupled, for example by an in-line valve or by forming a valve assemblyof the hose valve type, or by a quick coupling type coupling. In otherembodiments the tapping line used can be a fixed tapping line of abeverage dispense system. Both types of systems are well known in theart and shall not be further discussed.

FIG. 1 shows in a side view part of a first embodiment of a tappingassembly 1, showing a neck region 2 of a container 3, a gas connectingunit 4 of a connecting device 5, connected to a gas line 6, such as anair line or air hose, and a connector 7 connected to a tapping line 8,especially a flexible tapping line. As will be discussed the gasconnecting unit 4 can be connected to the neck region 2, whereas theconnector 7 can be coupled to or at least over a valve 9 mounted in aclosure ring 10 of the container 3. The container is a bag-in-containertype container 3.

FIG. 2 shows in a side view part of a second embodiment of a tappingassembly 1, showing a neck region 2 of a container 3, a gas connectingunit 4 of a connecting device 5, connected to a gas line 6, such as anair line or air hose, and a connector 11 connected to a tapping line 8,especially a flexible tapping line. As will be discussed the gasconnecting unit 4 can be connected to the neck region 2, whereas theconnector 1 can be coupled to the gas unit 4, in a position over a valve9 mounted in a closure ring 10 of the container 3. The container is abag-in-container type container 3.

Alternative to the embodiment of FIG. 2 the connector 11 could also beintegral to the connecting device 5. In such embodiment preferably thetapping line 8 is provided with a valve spaced apart from or in theconnector 11 for closing off the tapping line 8, such that whenconnecting the connecting device 5 to the container 3 and therebyopening the valve 9 as will be discussed, beverage will not flow out ofthe tapping line 8 unintended. Such valve can for example be asdisclosed in EP1289874 or US2004226967, and as discussed here above.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 the container 3 and the unit 4 canbe the same, whereas the connectors 7 and 11 can be different, theconnector 7 of the first embodiment being designed basically for singleuse, i.e. for use with one container only, disposable with the tappingline 8, although it could be reusable for different containers, whereasin the second embodiment the connector 11 is designed basically forrepeated use, i.e. for use with a series of different containers 3. Aconnecting device according to this description can therefore comprisean air unit 4 and, depending on the intended use, either one or both ofthe connectors 7, 11. The connector 7 of the first assembly could beprovided with and/or could be discarded with the container 3, such thatfor each subsequent container 3 a new connector 7 is used.

In FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically a tapping device 200 is shown, to whichthe tapping line 8 is connected in a known and suitable manner, suchthat when operating a tapping handle 201 of the tapping device 200,beverage from the container 3 can flow through the tapping line 8 andout of the tapping device 200.

Embodiments of the air unit 4 and container 3 shall be discussed ingeneral, whereas the connectors shall be described with specificreferences to the relevant figures.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 the container 3 can have an outercontainer 12 with a body 13, of which a shoulder portion is visible inFIGS. 1-8, having a substantially cylindrical neck 15 forming part ofthe neck region 2. The neck comprises a ring shaped flange 14 as iscommon in the art and can for example be used for engaging the preformfrom which the container is formed as well as the container duringmanufacturing, filling and/or further handling, whereas the flange 14can also increase the rigidity of the neck 15. The neck 15 is furtherprovided with a number of coupling elements 16, preferably above theflange 14, which can cooperate with compatible coupling provisions 17 ofthe gas unit 4, as will be explained hereafter. The coupling elements 16and provisions can together form a bayonet type coupling assembly.

In FIG. 11 a neck region 2 of a container 3 is shown, whereas FIGS.14-18 show a preform assembly 19 that can be used for forming suchcontainer as well as a container 3 as such.

The preform assembly 19 comprises an outer preform 20 and an innerpreform 21, which is inserted into the outer preform 20. Both preforms20, 21 are in the embodiment shown basically rotational symmetricalaround a longitudinal axis X-X, though openings 22 as will be discussedcan be provided in discrete positions. Other shapes and dimensions wouldbe possible too. The outer preform will, when blow moulded, form theouter container 12, whereas the inner preform 21 will by blow mouldingform an inner container 35, which will be more flexible than the outercontainer 12 and may for example be a bag or balloon or such container.

The outer preform 20 has a neck or neck region 15, as indicated before,which on the inside is provided with a shoulder 23, for example at alongitudinal level substantially the same as an upper face 14A of theflange 14. The inner preform 21 has a neck or neck region 24, which iswider than a body forming portion 25 thereof, such that a shoulder 26 isformed which can rest on the shoulder 23 of the outer preform 20. Thusan insertion depth is defined. As can be seen the shoulder 26 and theneck 24 of the inner preform 21 can be provided with spacer elements 27,such as teeth, channels or the like, such that at least at differentperipheral positions gaps are maintained between the preforms at theneck and shoulder regions, in order to prevent them from close contact,since such close contact could seal off the shoulders 23, 26 and necks15, 24 or at least substantially prevent gas such as air passing theshoulders 23, 26 into the body 32 of the container, between outer andinner containers 12, 35.

In the embodiment shown the spacer elements 27 can comprise a flange orridge 121 extending outward from the outer surface of the neck region ofthe inner preform 21, for example approximately at a level of the lowerend of or just below the outer wall part 49B of the groove 49, which hasan outer diameter only slightly smaller than the inner diameter of theneck of the outer preform at the same level. This flange or ridge 121thus can form at least part of a shoulder 26 for resting on the shoulder23 in the outer preform 20. The flange or ridge 121 comprises at leastone and preferably a number of cut-troughs 122. As is shown in FIG. 16this or these cut-troughs 122 can each be in communication with achannel 122A extending in an outer face of the inner preform and/or inan inner face of the outer preform, extending over at least part of ashoulder forming part 123 thereof. Upon blow moulding the BIC integrallyfrom the preforms 20, 21 the shoulder forming part 123 will be expandedin radial and tangential direction, for forming a shoulder of the innerand outer containers. The cut troughs 122 and the channels 122A willremain open, even though the channels 122A will deform slightly, suchthat a clear passage for pressurised gas is obtained or maintained fromthe at least one opening 22 into the space 32 between the body formingportions of the inner and outer containers. As can for example be seenin FIGS. 15 and 18 the neck 24 of the inner preform 21 and the neck 15of the outer preform 20 and/or outer and inner containers 12, 35 areconnected to a closure ring 10, such that an air tight connection isprovided between the neck 26 and the ring 10 and between the neck 15 andthe ring 10. The ring 10 thus closes off the upper end of the space orinterface 28 between the outer and inner preform 20, 21 or containers12, 35 formed there from.

In the embodiments shown the ring 10 is mounted on the free ends 30, 31of the respective necks 15, 26 of the outer 20 and inner preform 21 orcontainers 12, 35. The free ends 30, 31 are formed at a side of therespective necks 15, 26 at a side remote from the body 32 of thecontainer 3. These free ends 30, 31 are positioned at first and secondlongitudinal levels A and B. Each level A, B can for example berepresented as a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis X-X. The levels A and B can coincide, but in the embodiment shownthe level A at which the free end 30 of the outer preform 20 or outercontainer 12 lies is positioned at a higher longitudinal level A, thatis further from the body 32 of the container 3 than the level B at whichthe free end 31 of the inner preform 21 or container 35 formedtherefore, which may be a bag, is positioned.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14B the inner preform 21 can havelongitudinal length X₁ which is substantially smaller than thelongitudinal length X₂ of the outer preform 20, such that a substantialopen area is formed between bottom portions 33A, 33B of the inner 20 andouter preform 21. This means that the outer longitudinal length of theinner container below the neck region, including the bottom formingportion, is considerably smaller than the inner longitudinal length ofthe outer container below the neck forming portion. Thus when blowmoulding the preforms into a container, the inner preform 21 is likelyto be stretched longitudinally first, before the outer preform isstretched as well, which can mean that the wall thickness of the bodyforming portion 28 of the inner container 35 or bag formed is reducedmore significantly than the wall thickness of the outer container 12when stretched. Moreover this may lead to different material propertiesof the inner and outer containers formed, even if the same material isused. The same material should be understood as at least meaning thesame type of plastic, even if they are different grades of such plastic,or the same blends of plastics, wherein blends are at least consideredthe same within the context of this application when they containsubstantially the same plastic materials in substantially the sameweight percentages. Substantially the same should be understood in thiscontext as at least meaning within 10% differences in weight ratios,wherein substantially the same plastics should be understood as meaningthat they should comprise the same plastics, even if they are differentgrades, whereas if they contain different plastics, the amount ofdifference may by weight ratio not exceed 10 percent of the total weightof the preforms or containers. In embodiments the inner and outerpreform may be made of different plastic materials. Release agents orthe like may be provided between the preforms and/or parts thereof. Asubstantial open area should be understood as meaning that the area isseen in the longitudinal length direction of the preforms larger thanstrictly necessary for accommodating fabrication tolerances of theinjection moulded preforms and possibly a stub formed at the bottomportion 33B of the inner preform, which is due to the injection point ofthe preform being present centrally at said bottom portion 33B. By wayof example only, (X2−X1)/X2 could be in a range of for example between0.1 and 0.3.

In the embodiment of FIG. 14D the lengths X1 and X2 of the inner andouter preforms 21, 20 are chosen such that the bottom portion 33B of theinner preform 21 is close, preferably as close as possible to the bottomportion 33A of the outer preform 20 as physically possible, taking intoaccount normal production tolerances for the preforms and alignment ofthe preforms relative to each other and for accommodating the stubresulting from the injection point of the inner preform 21. This can beunderstood that said lengths are a close to being equal as allowable. Inembodiments this means that the difference in length X2 and X1 would bein the order of a few millimeters. The difference in length ispreferably sufficient to allow relative rotation of the inner preformand the outer preform during spin welding steps. By way of example,which should not be understood as limiting the scope of the disclosurein any way, for a BIC having an internal volume for beverage of between15 and 20 liters, the difference in length X2 and X1 could be less than5 mm, for example less than 4 mm, at a total outer length of the outerpreform 20 of for example about 250 mm. The relation (X2−X1)/X2 can bein the order of less than 0.1, for example about 0.05 or less. By makingthe preforms 20, 21 substantially of the same length, the stretch ratiosof the preforms 20, 21 during blow moulding them together into a BICwill be better controlled and more optimal for the material propertiesof both the inner and outer container. For example the inner containerwill be prevented from being over stretched. Over stretching the innercontainer could be detrimental to its strength and could make the innercontainer prone to breaking. The outer container could be prevented frombeing under stretched. Under stretching of the outer container couldlead to a container with insufficient stability necessary for performingits functions, such as but not limited to protecting the inner containerand providing for a pressure barrel in order to be able to squeeze theinner container by pressurising the space between the inner and outercontainer.

The plastic materials and processing parameters for especially blowmoulding should be chosen such that the inner container 35 will releasefrom the body 13 of the outer container 12 when the space 32 in betweenthem is pressurised to a pressure sufficient to properly dispense thebeverage by squeezing at least part of the body portion of the innercontainer. The release pressure can be understood as the differencebetween the pressure of the fluidum, especially gas, such as air or CO₂introduced into the space 32 between the inner and outer containers andthe pressure inside the inner container, for example provided by acarbonated beverage enclosed therein, such as but not limited to beer.This pressure difference preferably is relatively low, such as forexample less than about 1 bar (1·10⁵ Pa), more preferably less than 0.5Bar (0.5·10⁵ Pa), even more preferably less than 0.2 Bar (0.2·10⁵ Pa). Alow release pressure will have the advantage that the absolute pressurewithin the space 32 and therefore within the BIC can be kept relativelylow, which can increase safety. For example a pressure in said space canbe kept below 4 barg, more specifically less than 3 barg absolute.Preferably the outer and inner preforms 20, 21 or containers 12, 35 arenot connected to each other over any substantial area within the body32.

As can be seen in for example FIGS. 11, 15 and 18 at least one opening22 can be provided, extending through the wall of the neck 15 of theouter container 12. In the embodiment shown there are two such openings22, diametrically opposite each other. The opening or openings 22 is/arepositioned at a longitudinal level C between the levels A and B. i.e.above the flange 14 and below the free end 30 of the outer preform 20 orcontainer 12.

In embodiments the free ends 30, 31 are spaced apart over a longitudinaldistance W. The closure ring 10, as is shown for example in FIGS. 11,12, 14, 15, 15A, 18, 18A, 19A-D and 20A-D in more detail, can comprise acentral opening 34, opening into the inner volume of the inner preform21 or inner container 35, and is designed to hold a valve 9 as will bediscussed. The closure ring 10 can be provided with an outer, first ringshaped portion or flange 36 that can be positioned on the free end 30 ofthe outer preform 20 or outer container 12, an intermediate or secondperipheral ring shaped flange or portion 37 that can be positioned onthe free end 31 of the inner preform 21 or inner container 35, and aninner or third peripheral ring shaped flange or portion 38. The outerand intermediate portions 36, 37 are connected by a first peripheralwall 39, extending upward from an outer edge 43 of the intermediateportion 37. The intermediate and inner portions 37 and 38 are connectedby a second peripheral wall 40, extending downward from an inner edge 44of the intermediate portion 37. From an inner edge 41 of the innerportion 38 a third peripheral wall 42 extends upward, forming or atleast enclosing the opening 34. The walls 39, 40 and 42 can beconsidered as forming substantially concentric skirts. The second andthird walls 40, 42 can be substantially parallel to each other and tothe longitudinal axis X-X, whereas the first wall can slope slightlyoutward in upward direction.

The first wall 39 preferably extends directly adjacent the inner face 45of the neck 15 of the outer preform 20 or container 12, such that theouter edge 43 is positioned above the shoulders 23 and 26, wherein theneck portion 24A of the neck 24 between the free edge 31 and theshoulder 26 is enclosed between the said edge 43 and the shoulder 23.Preferably at least at a lower end of the first wall 39, close to theedge 43 a gap is provided between the wall 43 and the inner face 45. Thesecond wall 40 extends preferably adjacent the inner face 46 of the neck24 of the inner preform 21 or inner container 35. The inner portion 38of the closure ring 10 can be positioned at the longitudinal level ofthe shoulder 23 and/or the flange 14. Thus the neck 24 of the innerpreform 21 or container 35 is well enclosed. The third or inner wall 42can extend from the portion 38 upward to a level D substantially thesame as level A, and preferably below a top surface 47 of the first orouter portion 37. The contact surfaces between the ring 10 and the freeends 30, 31 could have any suitable shape and configuration, and maydepend on for example the method of connecting. In embodiments the ring10 can be connected to the preforms by mechanical or physical means,such as but not limited to press fitting, screw threads, bayonetcoupling, glue, welding, over moulding or other suitable means. In thepresent disclosure especially welding is disclosed, more specificallyspin welding, by way of example. Combinations of connecting techniquesas discussed are also possible. The configuration discussed hereafter isnot limiting but may be advantageous for welding, especially spinwelding.

In the embodiment as shown in for example FIGS. 14 C and D and FIGS. 15Aand 18A the ring 10 is mounted substantially entirely within the neckportion of the outer container. In this embodiment the ring 10 is notprovided with the flange 36, or at least not such flange for resting ontop of the neck of the outer container but is during spin welding forcedinto and fused with an internal portion of the neck of the outer preform20.

In the embodiments shown the ring 10 and free ends 30, 31 of thepreforms or containers form a labyrinth 32A type of connecting, whichmay be beneficial because it can limit or even prevent debris comingfrom the plastic during spin welding or otherwise connecting the partsfrom entering into the space 28 and/or into the inner volume 48 of theinner preform 21 or inner container 35. In the embodiment shown the freeedge 31 of the inner preform 21 and/or of the inner container 35 isprovided with an annular groove 49, between an inner wall portion 49Aand an outer wall portion 49B, open in upward direction, away from thebody 32. From the intermediate portion 38 a skirt 50 extends downward,preferably a peripheral skirt, into the groove 49. The groove 49 ispreferably somewhat deeper than the height 51 of the skirt 50, whereasthe skirt may be slightly wider than the groove 49, at least over partof its height 51. In FIG. 15 overlapping materials are shown at the topright hand corner of the groove, which may be used during spin welding,to merge the ring 10 and inner preform 21 or container 35. The free end30 of the outer preform 20 and/or of the outer container 35 can beprovided with a further annular or peripheral skirt 52, whereas theouter portion 37 of the ring may be provided, at the side facing saidfree edge 30, with an annular groove 53. The depth of the groove 53 mayagain be slightly larger than the height of the skirt 53 above the freeend 30. During welding any material released from the ring 10 and/or thepreforms 20, 21 or containers 12, 35 respectively may, at least to alarge extend, be caught within the grooves 49, 53.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14C and D and FIGS. 15A and 18A, asecond labyrinth 32B type of connection is provided between the innerand outer preforms 21, 20 and the ring 10. In this embodiment the outerwall portion 49B of the groove 49 of the inner container 21 is extendingfurther upward relative to the inner wall portion 49A thereof, forming aperipheral lip portion 49C inclined outward, such that the free edge 49Dof said lip portion 49C is in close proximity of or in contact with theinner face 45 of the neck outer preform or outer container, preferablyabove the at least one opening 22, that is at a side of said at leastone opening 22 facing towards the free ends 30, 31. In this embodimentany debris forming during connecting the ring 10, especially to theouter preform, for example by spin welding, or otherwise present at thering will be caught by said lip portion 49C and will be trapped,prevented from entering into the space 32.

In the embodiment shown of the closure ring 10, the second wall 40 maybe provided with engagement elements 54 for engaging the ring 10 duringspin welding, in which the ring and preforms 20, 21 and/or containers12, 35 are rotated relative to each other around the longitudinal axisX-X at such speed and pressure that the materials of the ring 10 and thepreforms 20, 21 and/or containers 12, 35 at least partly melt and merge,such that a gas and liquid tight connection is obtained, as isschematically shown especially in the cross section of FIG. 18. Spinwelding as such is a technique well known in the art and is thereforenot discussed herein in extenso. The engagement elements 54, here shownas teeth, enable an easy and firm grip of the closure ring 10.

In embodiments of a method of the disclosure the preforms 20, 21 and thering 10 can be assembled prior to blow moulding. In embodiments they canbe assembled directly or shortly after injection moulding of thepreforms, and then stored and shipped to a filling station, where theycan be blow moulded into a container directly prior to filling thecontainer with a beverage. In an alternative embodiment the preforms andthe ring 10 can be shipped in a position in which the ring 10 is notconnected to both preforms 20, 21 or at least not to one of them, suchthat the inner preform can be inserted into the outer preform directlyprior to blow moulding the container, which would typically be close toor in line with a blow moulding apparatus and a filling station forfilling beverage into the container. An advantage thereof could be thatwhen for example a release agent is used between the inner and outerpreforms, for preventing at least in part adherence between the innerand outer containers, this release agent can be applied directly priorto blow moulding, which may prevent the release agent from running,which could lead to an uneven distribution and therefore improperfunctioning of the release agent. Such release agent, which in itself isknown in the art, could be applied for example by (dip)coating orspraying, for example using a silicon based material. In embodiments thering could be adhered to the inner preform first, and then to the outerpreform, for example after applying a release agent. In embodiments thering 10 can be part of the inner preform, at least in part. Inembodiments the ring 10 can be adhered to the outer preform only afterblow moulding the container from the set of preforms. In embodiments theinner preform could be blow moulded into a container blow moulded fromthe outer preform.

When assembling the inner and outer preforms directly prior to blowmoulding them into the container an advantage can be obtained that thepreforms, and especially the inner preform, can be heated at least inpart prior to inserting the inner preform into the outer preform, whichfacilitates accurate heating of the preforms even further.

During blow moulding of a container 3 a tool of a blow mouldingapparatus, such as for example a stretch rod, heating device or the likecan be inserted through the opening 34 in the ring 10, if previouslyprovided, wherein the opening 34 is preferably slightly larger than therelevant cross section of the tool, such that pressure release of theinner volumes of the preforms is possible, at least partly passed thetool.

As can be seen in for example FIGS. 11, 15 and 18, the opening oropenings 22 open into the space or interface 28 between the necks 15, 24at a level just above the level B. In other words through such opening22 the wall 39 and/or a lip portion 49C if applicable is visible. Anygas such as air injected into and through the opening will thereforeimpinge onto said wall, which is relatively rigid, and be forced downtowards the body 32. By providing the or each opening in the neck region2, it is ensured that during blow moulding of the container 3 theopening or openings 22 will not be deformed or displaced, since the neckregion 2 will not deform during blow moulding.

As is shown in for example FIG. 11, a valve 9, such as but not limitedto an aerosol valve type valve as is commonly known in the art and forexample described in WO00/35803 or EP1506129. The valve 9 is mounted ina clinch plate 55, for example made of metal or plastic, which can beclinched onto a upper end 56 of the inner wall 42. In the embodimentshown the valve 9 is a female type aerosol type of valve. Obviously alsoother such valves can be used, such as but not limited to male aerosolvalves and/or tilting aerosol valves and the like. Any type of valvesuitable for closing off the dispense opening and for being opened bythe connecting device or connector or dispense adapter can be used inthe present disclosure. The valve 9 preferably extends below the level47 of the outer portion of the closure ring 10, such that the valve 9 iswell protected. The valve 9 with clinch plate 55 closes off the opening34 and thus the inner volume of the inner container 35. In theembodiment as for example shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 7 and 8 the valve 9 isconnected to a dip tube 108. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A such dip tube108 is omitted. In this embodiment, which could be used with thecontainer standing on its bottom and the valve 9 on top, the head spaceof the inner container will be emptied and removed immediately uponpressurising the container and opening the valve 9 for the first time,such that after that the entire remaining volume of the inner containerwill be filled with beverage when pressurised sufficiently, improvingthe tapping behaviour and the quality of the beverage. In thisembodiment a valve body 130 of the valve 9 is biased in a manner knownfrom for example aerosol valves, against a seal 131 by a spring enclosedwithin a housing 132. In this embodiment the housing is provided withrelatively large side openings 133 for not unduly restriction the flowwhen the valve 9 is opened.

As can be seen in for example FIG. 9, the unit 4 comprises an opening60, extending through the unit 4, such that the unit 4 can be placedover the neck region 2 of the container 3, The opening 60 can bedimensioned such that the neck region, especially the neck 15 firstrelatively snugly into said opening 60, up to the flange 14, as is forexample shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 for the first embodiment and FIGS. 7 and8 for the second.

FIG. 10A shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a gas connectingunit 4. This unit 4 comprises a first part 61 or housing, and a secondpart 62 which may also be referred to as operating ring 62. In theembodiment shown the housing 61 comprises a top part 61A and a bottompart 61B, which can enclose the second part 62 and can be screwed orotherwise connected together. Screws 63 are indicatively shown. Thesecond part 62 has a substantially ring shaped wall 64, defining acentral opening 65 extending around and/or forming part of a wall of theopening 60. Two wings 66 extend from opposite sides of the ring shapedwall 64. On the inside facing side of the wall 64 recesses 67 areprovided, for receiving coupling elements 16 from below. The lower part61A of the housing comprises a peripheral edge 68 with complementaryrecesses 69 through which the coupling elements 16 can pass, whenaligned with the recesses 67, into or out of the recesses 67. The secondpart 62 is movable relative to the first part 61 such that the recesses67 and 69 can be brought into and out off alignment, such that when inalignment the unit 4 can be placed on or removed from a container 3,whereas when out of alignment the position of the unit 4 is secured onthe container or at least such placing or removing of the unit isprohibited. In the embodiment shown the relative movement is a rotationaround the longitudinal axis X-X or around the longitudinal axis Y-Y ofthe opening 60, which may coincide with axis X-X when the unit is placedon the container.

As can be understood from the drawings, in the embodiment shown thefirst part 61 is provided such that the second part 62 can rotate aroundsaid axis Y-Y within the first part 61 over an angle, but issubstantially prevented from any further movement, such as translationsor other rotations, for example by said edge 68. By placing the unit 4on a container 3 with the coupling elements 16 within the recesses 67,the second part 62 is substantially prevented from rotation around theaxis X-X by the engaging coupling elements 16 and recesses 67. Thus arotation of the first part 61 will lead to a movement thereof relativeto the second part 62 and the container 3 around the axis X-X and thusto locking the coupling elements 16 within the recesses 67 by the edge68. The edge 68 can engage the lower sides of the coupling elements 16.By positioning the elements 16 at a non-equal peripheral spacing, theposition of the unit on the container is defined or at least only alimited and well defined number of positions is possible. In theembodiment shown there are four such coupling elements, positioned inpairs, such that two positions of the unit are possible, which differ inan orientation over 180 degrees. Obviously it could be possible toposition the elements 16 such that only one such position is possible,or for example four. The opening or openings 22 can be positionedbetween two adjacent coupling elements 16, such that the adjacentelements 16 are closer to each other than to an next coupling element 16of the or an other pair of such elements 16.

In the wall 64 between the relevant recesses 67 an opening 69 isprovided, for example at the position of one of the wings 66. Aconnecting element 70 is movable relative to the opening 69, between aretracted position, as for example shown in FIG. 10 left hand side, anda forward or extended position, in which the connecting element 70extends from the opening 69 into the opening 60, such that a forward end71 engages the neck 12 of the container 3 at an the opening 22, suchthat gas can be inserted through the connecting element 70 into andthrough the opening 22 into the space 28 for compressing the innercontainer 35 within the outer container 12. A mechanism 72 is providedfor forcing said movement of the connecting element 70 between theextended and the retracted position and vice versa. Such mechanism 72can for example be operated manually, separate from the locking of theunit 4 onto the coupling elements 16, pneumatically by using pressuregas from the pressure gas source, or separate there from, or in anyother suitable way.

In the embodiment shown for example in FIG. 10, left hand side, themechanism 72 is mechanical and actuated by the rotation of the firstpart 61 of the unit relative to the second part 62. The connectingelement 70 in this embodiment comprises a body 73 slidable with guides74 of the wing, wherein the body 73 comprises the element 70 with achannel 75 extending from a radial inlet 76 to a forward end 77 which isopen and preferably surrounded by a sealing ring 78 for sealinglyengaging a preferably substantially flat surface area 79 around theopening 22. A spring element 90 can be provided between an end of theelement 70 and the body 73, for biasing the element towards the extendedposition. The radial inlet 76 connects to a gas inlet line when theconnecting element 70 is in the extended position, whereas the radialinlet is isolated from the gas inlet line when the element 70 is in theretracted position. The body 73 is provided with teeth 80 at a sidethereof, engaged by complementary teeth 81 of an arm 82, pivotablysupported on the wing 66 within the housing 61. At an end 83 of the arm82 opposite the teeth 81 a spring element 84 can be provided for biasingthe arm 82 and thus the teeth 80, 81 in an engaging position.

Upon rotation of the first part 61 relative to the second part 62, inthe direction U in FIG. 10, the arm 82 will be pivoted, such that theteeth 80, 81 will push the body 73 in the direction R, towards theextended position of the connecting element 70. Thus when the unit 4 ispositioned on the neck region 2 of a container 3, and the first part 61is rotated in order to lock the unit 4 on the container 3, the mechanism72 will force the connecting element 70 outward, towards the extendedposition, in sealing engagement with the area around the opening 22 andin fluid communication with opening 22, such fluidly connecting the gassupply with the opening 22 and thus with the space 28. When on the otherhand the housing 61 is turned in the opposite direction, the connectingelement 70 will be retracted and the unit 4 will be released for removalfrom the container 3.

As can be seen for example in FIG. 10A, on the wings 66 an indicatorelement 91 can be provided, visible through a window 93 of the upperhousing part 61A, which indicates whether the unit 4 is locked onto thecontainer 3 or not.

A unit 4 could be provided solely with such connecting element forconnecting a gas supply to the opening 22. In such embodiment thecontainer is preferably only provided with one opening 22, or the unitis provided with a sealing element for sealing the or each further suchopening 22.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 10A opposite the connectingelement 70 a pressure release provision 109 is provided, which can havea mechanism 94 of similar design to the mechanism 72 of the connectingelement 70. FIGS. 10 and 10A show such at the right hand side of theopening 60. Again a body 74A is provided, slidable relative to the wing66, wherein again an arm 82A with teeth 81A engages teeth 80 on the body74A. Upon rotation of the housing 61 relative to the second part 62 thebody is moved in the direction R towards an extended position. In thebody 74A again a connecting element 70A with a channel 75A is provided,biased by a spring element 90A and having a sealing ring 78A at the freeforward end 77A thereof for engaging an area around an opening 22opposite the earlier described opening for allowing gas into the space28. The channel 75A again comprises a radial outlet opening 76A, whichin this case connects to a pressure relief valve system 95, especiallywhen the element 70A is in the forward position, engaging an opening 22.The pressure relief valve 95 can be set at a desired safety pressure,sufficiently higher than the pressure required or desired forcompressing the inner container 35 when dispensing a beverage therefrom, but below a safe maximum pressure that would be allowable in saidcontainer 3. The safety pressure could for example be set such thatpressure is released when it exceeds for example 5 Bar absolute, forexample when it exceeds a pressure 4 Bar, such as but not limited to apressure above 3 Bar, which pressures are only provided by way ofexample and should by no means be understood as limiting. Preferably thepressure is settable by the valve system 95, more preferably only whenthe housing 61 is opened, which should not be done or even possible byunauthorised persons, which can for example be prohibited by closing theunit with special tools, sealing or the like. More preferably therelease pressure is defined by the construction and is not settableafter manufacturing of the connecting device.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C the connecting device orunit 4 differs from that as shown in FIGS. 10 and 10 in that theconnecting element 70 shown on the left hand side in the FIG. 10 isconnected to the gas supply line 6, whereas the other connecting element70A is “blind”, which means that it can connect to an opening 22 in thecontainer, as described before, but gas cannot pass through saidconnecting element 70A such that this element functionally closes offsaid opening 22 it connects to. To this end for example the channel 75Acan be closed and the radial outlet opening 76A can be closed. In thisembodiment between the gas line 6 and the connecting element 70 apressure relief provision 109A is provided, in line. In this embodimentthe provision 109A comprises a first housing part 110 connected to thegas line 6 and provided with at least one opening 111 opening into theenvironment. A second housing part 112 is connected to the connectingelement 70, preferably by a flexible tubing 113. The first and secondhousing parts 110, 112 can be connected to each other, enclosing thereina spring 114 forcing a valve body 115 with a head 119 against an inletopening 116 of the first housing part 110. The valve body extends with astem 117 through a washer 118 or such seal. Through the valve body achannel 120 extends with a relatively small cross section. In a normalcondition the head 119 is forced against the inside of the housing part110, such that an inlet side of the channel 120 is in communication withthe gas inlet, whereas the at least one opening 11 is shielded from thegas channel 6 by the head 119. Gas can flow from the gas line 6 directlythrough the channel 120 and through the tubing 113 into the connectingelement 70 for feeding the gas into the space 32. If however the gaspressure in the gas line 6 becomes too high, that is above a set limit,the valve body 115 will be pushed back against the spring 114, forcingthe head 119 away from the gas inlet of the first housing part 110, suchthat gas can escape through the at least one opening 111. Preferablyseveral such openings are provided for reducing the flow resistance tothe environment. If the pressure again falls below the set limit, thevalve body will regain its original position, closing off again thecommunication between the gas line 6 and the at least one opening 111.In an alternative embodiment the valve body and housing 110, 112 can bemade such that upon increasing pressure of the gas supply through thegas supply line 6 to above an upper limit pressure the valve body willentirely close of the gas supply to the openings 22 by closing off thegas line 6. This may lead to bursting of the gas supply line 6 or comingloose thereof, but will prevent the risk of gas still flowing into thecontainer. In embodiment a pressure release connector could be providedin the gas supply line 6.

As indicated before the second connecting element 70 can in thisembodiment be similar to the one described before, but closed off orblind, such that the operation and feel of the connecting device remainssubstantially the same.

In FIGS. 17 and 17A schematically a container is shown in side view,with in broken lines the preforms 20, 21 from which the container hasbeen blow moulded integrally. In FIG. 17 the bottom of the container hasa petaloid shape, as known in the art. In the embodiment of FIG. 17A thebottom is hemispherical. Especially but not exclusively in the latterembodiment the container can be packaged in a outer package such as abox, for example made of cardboard, fibre board, plastic or wood, forsupporting and protecting the container and/or for enabling stablepositioning of the container during for example transport, storage anddispensing and other use.

In an embodiment of the unit as shown in for example FIGS. 10 and 10Athe rotation of the housing 61 relative to the container 3 forces theelements 70 and 70A to move in substantially radial direction R,substantially normal to the longitudinal axis X-X, which provides for asecure movement and sealing, prevents wear and allows for easyadjustment to for example tolerances is sizes and dimensions of the neckand connecting device.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 3-5, in the first embodiment the connector7 can be connected directly to the valve 7, for example by fitting theconnector 7 to the closure ring 10, especially to the third wall 43and/or to the clinch plate 55. In the embodiment shown to that end theconnector 7 has a substantially dome shaped housing 100 with a rimportion 101 that fits as a snap fitting over the outer edge 102 of theclinch plate 55 and snaps below said edge 102, against the wall 43.Preferably this snap fit is such that the dome and thus the connector 7cannot be removed, once fitted, without damage to the connector 7 and/orthe ring 10 and/or the clinch plate 55, preferably such that properrefitting the connector 7 to the same or a different container 3 isprohibited. The connector 7 comprises a stem 103 that engages the valve9, such that the valve 9 is opened and beverage can flow from the innercontainer 35 through the valve into the stem 103, to further flow into atapping line connected thereto, to be fed to a tap for dispensing. Byfitting the connector 7 properly to the container 3, especially over thevalve 9, the valve is thus opened and preferably cannot be opened andclosed repeatedly. The connector can be fitted prior to placing the unit4 on the container 3, or after such placing of the unit 4. The connector7 can extend inside the opening 60, whereas the taping line can extendthrough or from the opening 60. The upper housing part 61A can beprovided with a guide edge 104 for supporting the tapping line.

As can be seen in FIGS. 2, and 6-8 in the second embodiment theconnector 11 can be connected to the unit 4, especially to the upperhousing part 61A, for example by screw threads, bayonet engagement orthe like. In FIGS. 2, 9 and 10A schematically cooperating elements 105A,B to that end are shown. In FIG. 8 the elements 105A are shown, lockedbelow the elements 105B. By rotation of the connector 11 around the axisY-Y it can be locked in this position or can be released. In thisembodiment again a stem 103A is provided, extending substantiallyparallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of opening 60. The stem 103A againacts on the vale 9 for opening it and allowing beverage to be passedfrom the inner volume of the inner container 35 to a tapping lineconnected to the connector 11. The tapping line can in this embodimentbe part of a tapping device with for example an in line cooler 106,schematically shown in FIG. 2 in part. In this embodiment a non-returnvalve 107 is shown in the connector 11, between the stem 103A and thetapping line, such that liquid or gas is substantially prevented fromflowing back into the stem from the tapping line. Again the connector 11can be placed in the unit 4 after the unit has been placed on thecontainer, or before, and can be removed from the unit 4 before or afterthe unit is removed from the container 3.

When the placement or removal of the connector 7, 11 is or at least canat least partly be independent from placing and/or removing of the unityonto or from the container, the connector, especially connector 11 canbe removed from the container, for example for cleaning, withoutdecompression of the container.

In FIGS. 4, 5, 7 and 8 the connecting elements have been shown in aretracted position, for clarity. When the connecting device is placedand rotated appropriately, as described, they are brought into closeconnection with the neck and are connected to the at least one opening22, as also described before.

In the embodiments shown the outer preform 20 has a body forming portionwhich is substantially cylindrical with a longitudinal axis X-X andclosed off at the bottom by a bottom forming portion. The cylindricalportion has a maximum cross section or maximum diameter Db andpreferably a substantially constant outer diameter Db over itscylindrical length Lb between the flange 14 and the bottom formingportion, wherein the body forming portion may have a draft over saidlength Lb, suitable for release from an injection moulding mould, as isknown to the person skilled in the art. The maximum diameter Db ispreferably smaller than that of the flange 14, if applicable. The neckportion or region preferably is also substantially cylindrical with alongitudinal axis X-X substantially coinciding with the longitudinalaxis of the body forming portion. The substantially cylindrical part ofthe neck region has an average outer diameter Dn(out) which is largerthan the maximum diameter Db. In the embodiment shown the neck portionhas a substantially constant outer diameter Dn(out) above the flange 14.The wall thickness of the neck region of the outer preform 20 ispreferably slightly smaller than that of at least most of the bodyforming portion. In the embodiment shown the inner surface 45 of theneck region of the outer preform is positioned above and substantiallycoinciding with the outer surface of the body forming portion of saidpreform 20, or positioned only slightly inward, providing for theshoulder on which the inner container can be supported. The innersurface of the body forming portion of the outer preform 20 slopesinward over a part directly adjacent the flange 14. The wall partcomprising the sloping surface will during blow moulding form at leastmost of a shoulder of the outer container. Over at least part of thissloping surface and/or the facing surface part of the adjacent innercontainer spacing elements and/or channel forming parts are providedwhich remain at least partly open during and after blow moulding thecontainer from the preforms, allowing gas to be inserted from said atleast one opening 22 into the space between the body forming portions ofthe container. Such outer preform can be manufactured easily, byinjection moulding, without complicated movable parts in the mould. Onlyfor forming the at least one opening and the coupling elements at leastone part has to be provided in the injection moulding mould moving in adirection different from a direction parallel to the longitudinal axisX-X of the preforms. In the embodiments shown the coupling elements 16are provided substantially as tubular elements 16 having a releasedirection in a mould parallel to the release direction of the at leastone opening 22, such that they can easily be formed by the same mouldpart.

In FIG. 19A-D an embodiment of a preform assembly 19 is shown again, inlongitudinal section through a mid sectional plane along the line A-A inFIG. 19C, in both assembled condition (FIG. 19A) and pre assembling(FIG. 19B) and, in FIG. 19C, in cross section along the line B-B in FIG.19A. FIG. 19D shows a detail of FIG. 19C.

In FIG. 20A-D an embodiment of a preform assembly 20 is shown again, inlongitudinal section through a mid sectional plane along the line A-A inFIG. 20C, in both assembled condition (FIG. 20A) and pre assembling(FIG. 20B) and, in FIG. 20C, in cross section along the line B-B in FIG.20A. FIG. 20D shows a detail of FIG. 20C.

These preform assemblies can for example be similar to the assemblyaccording to FIG. 14. Only some details will be discussed herein,whereas for the further description reference is made to the earlierdescriptions of the preform assembly 19 and parts thereof, including theclosure ring 10.

FIG. 19B shows the outer preform 20, the inner preform 21 and theclosure ring 10, aligned for assembling. In FIG. 19B the shoulderforming part 123 of the inner preform 21 is only partly cut away, suchthat the cut through 122 and the spacing elements and/or channel formingparts 122A can be clearly seen in side view. The neck region 24 with theshoulder 26 is shown, being wider than the body forming portion 25. Theshoulder forming part 123 is slightly frusto conical, widening from thebody forming portion 25 to the neck region 24. In the outer periphery ofthe neck region 24 at least one, and in the embodiment shown twodiametrically opposed cut outs 22 are provided, though the neck region24, extending in longitudinal direction thereof and open to theperipheral surface. On the outer surface of the shoulder forming portion123 of the inner preform 21 directly below the cut out 122 spacerelements 27 are provided, formed by two adjacent ribs 122B enclosing achannel 122A there between. This channel 122A extends from the cut out122 towards at least near and preferably passed the end of the shoulderforming portion 123 at the side of the body forming portion 25. Thus itis prevented that when blow moulding the container from the assembly,the outer preform 20 can fully engage the outer surface of the shoulderforming part 123 of the inner container, thus obstructing a pressurefluidum from entering into the space the between the then formed innerand outer containers.

By providing two diametrically opposed cut throughs 122 and adjacentchannels 122A, the spacer elements 27 can be formed relatively easy inmold parts releasing to two opposite sides. When assembled, as can beseen in FIGS. 19A and B, the outer surface of the inner preform and theinner surface of the outer preform will be spaced apart mostly, over adistance approximately similar to the radial height of the ribs 122B.The ribs 122B are placed relatively close together, such that thechannel 122A will remain open, even after blow moulding the container.

When assembling the preforms 20, 21, preferably the cut throughs 122 andadjacent channels 122A are positioned such that the openings 22 openadjacent said cut throughs 122. However, as can be seen in FIG. 19B, theshoulder 23 on which the shoulder 26 can rest can be provided with astepped surface such that there will always be sufficient openingsbetween the shoulders 23, 26 for allowing a pressure fluid to proceedfrom the opening 22 or openings 22 into the channel or channels 122A andinto the space between the inner and outer preforms. In this embodimentagain the length X1 of the inner preform is significantly smaller thanthe length X2 of the outer preform 20, as shown and discussed withreference to FIG. 14A, for the same or similar reasons.

In FIG. 20 an alternative embodiment of a preform assembly is shown,both pre assembling (FIG. 20B) and in assembled condition (FIG. 20A) Inthis embodiment the spacing elements 7 are primarily formed on the innersurface of the outer preform 20, at least in the shoulder forming part23 thereof. In the embodiment shown again, as discussed with referenceto FIG. 19, the elements 7 can be formed as channels 122A betweenadjacent ribs 122B, which channels open in lower parts 7A of a steppedsurface 7 b of the shoulder 23 on which the shoulder 26 of the innerpreform 20 can come to rest. In this embodiment there are several suchchannels 122A, preferably more than two, for example six, spaced aroundthe periphery of the inner surface of the shoulder forming portion, 23,as shown in FIG. 20C. By increasing the number of channels 122A the areafor allowing a pressure medium to flow from the opening or openings 22is increased, better ensuring proper pressurising of the space betweenthe inner and outer containers after blow moulding. Moreover, thesechannels can be more easily maintained at least in part during blowmoulding, due to their positioning on the outer preform 20. By providingthem on the inner surface of the outer preform it is easier tomanufacture a multitude of such channels. During blow moulding the innerpreform may be heated to a higher temperature, which could bedetrimental to the channels if they are provided on the inner preform.The inner preform will be more fluid during blow moulding, which wouldreduce the accuracy of the shape of the ribs and thus of the remainingchannel. Especially since during blow moulding the pressure exerted forforming the container will be from the inside out, meaning that theinner preform will be pushed against the inner surface of the outerpreform. Again, providing the ribs and channels on the outer preformwill then be advantageous for maintaining the proper profiles of theribs and channels.

In the embodiments shown the height H of the ribs 122B can be similar tothe radial distance between the preforms 20, 21 in the neck regionand/or shoulder forming part 23 of the preforms, for example a fewmillimeters.

In this embodiment the lengths X1 and X2 are again as similar aspossible, as described with reference to FIG. 14D, for the same orsimilar reasons.

Obviously the configuration of the elements 7 and/or the neck regionconfiguration of FIG. 20 could be used in a set of preforms according toFIG. 19 or vice versa, or in the embodiments of FIG. 14.

It is preferred that the spacing elements and/or channel forming parts122 are at least mainly formed on the inside surface of the outerpreform 20, at least in the shoulder forming part or region 123 thereof.This can have a number of advantages, including but not limited to thatthe wall thickness of the outer preform may be larger, that during blowmoulding there may be less deformation in the outer preform, especiallyin the shoulder forming part or region 123, so that the shape anddimensions of the spacing elements and/or channel forming parts 122 willbe maintained more easily. Moreover, when the shoulder forming part 123widens in the direction of the open upper end 30, these spacing elementsand/or channel forming parts 122 can easily be formed by a releasingcore of an injection moulding mould, providing sufficient draft.Moreover, by providing them on the outer preform there may be lessstress in the container formed,

In the embodiments shown gas or such pressure fluid will be introducedin a substantially radial direction A_(in) of the neck portion of thecontainer, i.e. at an angle α relative to the axis X-X of the neck,which angle α preferably is between 30 and 150 degrees, more preferablybetween 45 and 135 degrees and more preferably about 90 degrees. By thisdirection the safety of the assembly can be increased, for examplebecause the pressure exerted by the gas is not in a direction in whichthe connecting device can be removed from the container. Moreover, thedirection is such that the gas will aid in providing passage for the gasinto said space between the containers. Furthermore by providing the atleast one opening in a wall of the neck region the gas inlet will notinterfere with the positioning of the beverage dispense line or tube orthe removal thereof. By moving the connecting element or elementsbetween the extended and the retracted position in substantially radialdirection, wear of the elements will be prevented such that safety isfurther enhanced. By providing an over pressure safety in the connectingdevice overpressure in the container can be avoided and/or resolvedeasily. By providing the at least one inlet opening 22 at a level suchthat it faces a wall part of the ring, i.e. for example at a level abovethe free end of the inner container 21, it is further ensured that thepassage of gas between the opening 22 and the space 32 between thecontainers is not obstructed. In the embodiments shown having the lipportion 49C gas flow will be directed by the sloping surface of the lipportion 49C towards the space 32.

In embodiment the source of the pressurised gas can be or at least cancomprise a compressor for air. Preferably the direction of thecompressor is reversible, such that when the inner container 35 isemptied to a desired extend, the air can be sucked from the space 28through the relevant opening 22, with the valve 9 still closed, whichwould lead to reducing the volume of the container since the outercontainer 12 will be compressed by pressure reduction within it. Thiswill significantly reduce the volume of the container to be discarded.

The invention is by no means limited to the embodiments specificallydisclosed and discussed here above. Many variations thereof arepossible, including but not limited to combinations of parts ofembodiments shown and described. For example the at least one opening 22can be provided in a different position, for example extending throughthe ring 10, preferably in substantially radial direction outward, forexample through the inner surface 39 or wall 40 of the ring, into thespace 32 between the containers, wherein the connecting device canextend into the ring for communicating properly with said at least oneopening. The container can be provided with only one opening in the neckor several such openings. In embodiments the relative movement of thefirst and second parts of the connecting device can be obtained at leastpartly by relative translation.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A tapping assembly for a beverage,comprising a bag-in-container comprising a first container and a secondcontainer, wherein the first container has a neck portion and the secondcontainer is suspended in the first container, from the neck portionthereof, wherein a neck region of the bag-in-container is provided withat least one opening through a wall of the neck portion of the firstcontainer into a space between the first and second containers, whereinthe assembly further comprises a connecting device, connected orconnectable to the neck region of the bag-in-container, wherein theconnecting device comprises at least one gas connecting element forconnecting to the at least one opening, wherein the gas connectingelement is connected to a source of pressurized gas.
 2. The tappingassembly according to claim 1, wherein the first and second containerhave a body portion, wherein the first and second container are gastightly connected to each other at the neck portions thereof, at a sideof the at least one opening opposite the body portions.
 3. The tappingassembly according to claim 1, wherein the first container is more rigidthan the second container, at least with respect to body formingportions thereof, whereas the at least one opening opens into said spacein a substantially radial direction, perpendicular to a longitudinalaxis of the neck region, and wherein the connecting element connects tosaid at least one opening in substantially the same radial direction. 4.The tapping assembly according to claim 1, wherein the neck portion ofthe first container is provided with at least one first coupling elementand the connecting device is provided with at least one complementarysecond coupling element, wherein the connecting device is or can becoupled to the neck region, wherein said at least one connecting elementis or becomes connected to the at least one opening.
 5. The tappingassembly according to claim 1, wherein the connecting device comprises afirst and second part, moveable relative to each other, wherein in afirst relative position of the parts the connecting element is in aretracted position and in a second relative position of the parts theconnecting element is in an extended position, wherein the connectingdevice comprises a mechanism configured wherein movement of theconnecting element between the retracted and the extended positions andvice versa is enforced by the relative movement of the parts throughsaid mechanism, wherein the first and second part are rotatable relativeto each other around a longitudinal axis of the neck region of thebag-in-container, wherein the said relative rotation of the partsenforces said movement of the connecting element.
 6. The tappingassembly according to claim 1, wherein the connecting device comprisesan overpressure release connector, in a connecting line for the sourceof pressurized gas or for connecting to the first opening or to a secondopening provided in said neck region of the bag-in-container.
 7. Thetapping assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first and secondcontainers are closed off at the neck portions to each other and/or by aclosure, comprising a valve, wherein the connecting device comprises aconnector in an opening positioned over the valve when the connectingdevice has been connected to the neck region, wherein when the connectoris placed in said opening with the connecting device connected to thebag-in-container, the connector opens the valve.
 8. The tapping assemblyaccording to claim 7, wherein the connector is provided with an openingin and/or through which a dispense line extends, which at one end isconnected to a dispense adaptor for connecting to and opening the valve,wherein the opposite end of the dispense line can be provided with avalve, especially an in-line valve, wherein the dispense line and thedispense adapter are disposable.
 9. An air connecting unit for use inthe tapping assembly of claim
 1. 10. The tapping assembly according toclaim 1, wherein the connecting element is movable relative to theopening at least partially in a direction substantially perpendicular toa longitudinal axis of the neck region of the bag-in-container.
 11. Thetapping assembly according to claim 10, wherein the first and secondneck portions have an axial direction and the opening extends in asubstantially radial direction of the relevant neck portion of the firstor second neck region and wherein the connecting element is movable insaid substantially radial direction, between a release position spacedapart from the opening and a connecting position gastight connecting tosaid opening.
 12. The tapping assembly according to claim 1, whereinsaid at least one opening is provided in the neck portion of the firstcontainer.
 13. The tapping assembly according to claim 5, wherein themechanism is an at least partly rotating mechanism.
 14. The tappingassembly according to claim 6, wherein the first and second opening arepositioned radially opposite each other.
 15. The tapping assemblyaccording to claim 1, wherein the first and second containers have beenintegrally blow moulded into the bag-in-container.
 16. A connectingdevice for connecting a dispense line and a gas line to abag-in-container, comprising a first part and a second part, movablyconnected to said first part, wherein at least one of the first and/orsecond part is provided with a coupling opening extending in asubstantially axial direction, with coupling elements for connecting thedevice to a part of a bag-in-container extending inside said couplingopening, wherein the connecting device is further provided with at leastone gas connecting element, movable between an extended position inwhich the gas connecting element extends at least partly inside saidcoupling opening and a retracted position in which the gas connectingelement extends less or not into said coupling opening, the connectingdevice further comprising a mechanism for moving the at least one gasconnecting element between the extended position and the retractedposition by relative movement of the first and second parts, wherein thegas connecting element is movable from a side wall of the couplingopening, in a substantially radial direction of the coupling opening.17. The connecting device according to claim 16, wherein the couplingopening extends through the connecting device, wherein a connector isreleasable provided in one end of the coupling opening, wherein: theconnector comprises a coupler for opening a valve of a container towhich the connecting device is connected and a tapping line extendingfrom said connector; or the connector comprises an opening in and/orthrough which a dispense line extends, which at one end is connected toa dispense adaptor for connecting to and opening the valve of acontainer to which the connecting device is connected; wherein theopposite end of the dispense line can be provided with a valve,especially an in-line valve, wherein the dispense line and the dispenseadapter are disposable.
 18. The connecting device according to claim 16,wherein a gas inlet line is coupled to the at least one connectingelement, for introducing gas under pressure into the space between innerand outer containers of a bag-in-container to which the connectingdevice is connected.
 19. The connecting device according to claim 16,wherein the connecting device further comprises an overpressure releasedevice, for coupling to at least a second opening in a neck region of abag-in-container to which the connecting device is connected.
 20. Theconnecting device according to claim 16, wherein the first and secondpart are rotatable relative to each other around an axis of the couplingopening, wherein the said relative rotation of the parts closes off saidcoupling elements of the coupling device, wherein complementary couplingelements of a container to which the connecting device is coupled arelocked within said coupling elements of the connecting device andsimultaneously forces the at least one connecting element to theextended position.
 21. A bag-in-container comprising a neck region ofthe bag-in-container is provided with at least one gas inlet openingextending substantially radially there through, through a wall of a neckportion of an outer container of said bag-in-container, into a spacebetween the outer container and an inner container adjacent thereto,wherein the neck portion of the inner container or the neck portion ofthe outer container is provided with coupling elements for coupling of aconnecting device thereto, wherein the bag-in-container is integrallyblow moulded from a preform assembly.
 22. The bag-in-container accordingto claim 21, manufactured by blow moulding from at least an inner and anouter plastic preform wherein the outer preform forms at least part ofthe outer container and the inner preform forms at least part of the bagor inner container, and wherein a closure ring is mounted on the innerand outer container, at least closing off a space between said inner andouter container into which space said at least one opening opens. 23.The bag-in-container according to claim 22, wherein the outer containerand inner container have first and second neck portions, wherein thering is mounted to the free ends of the first and second neck portions.24. The bag-in-container according to claim 21, wherein the bag issuspended by a neck portion in the neck portion of the outer container,wherein the neck portions both have a free end opposite a body portionof the bag-in-container, wherein a closure ring is connected to the freeedges of the neck portions of the inner and outer containers, whereinthe free edge of the neck portion of the inner container lies at a levelcloser to the body portion than the free edge of the neck portion of theouter container, wherein the ring extends at least partly into the neckportion of the outer container.
 25. The bag-in-container according toclaim 21, wherein: the inner container has a free edge opposite a bodyportion of the bag-in-container, which free edge is provided with anannular groove open to the side opposite the body portion, and wherein aring is mounted to the free edge, having a skirt extending into saidgroove and/or the inner container is provided at the neck region with anoutward facing flange, which has an edge positioned close to or inabutment with an inner surface of the outer container above the at leastone opening, substantially closing off the space between the neckportions of the inner and outer containers, for preventing debris fromentering the space between the inner and outer containers, especiallyduring mounting of a closure ring to the inner and/or outer container.26. The bag-in-container according to claim 22, wherein the ring ismounted to the inner and outer containers by spin welding.
 27. Thebag-in-container according to claim 22, wherein the ring is providedwith an opening, opening into the bag or inner container, which openingis closed by a valve.
 28. The bag-in-container according to claim 22,wherein the ring is provided with at least one wall circumferential wallpart, wherein teeth are provided on said wall part for engaging a spinwelding tool.
 29. A set of preforms for forming the bag-in-containeraccording to claim
 21. 30. A method for forming the bag-in-containeraccording to claim 21, comprising integrally blow moulding thebag-in-container from at least two super positioned preforms or anintegral, multilayer preform, wherein an outer container and an innercontainer or bag are formed, wherein prior to or after blow moulding thebag-in-container a closure ring is connected to the inner and/or outercontainer, closing off a space between the inner and outer containers,and wherein at least one opening is provided in a peripheral wall of aneck portion of the outer container, opening into said space, forintroducing gas under pressure into said space and compressing the innercontainer within the outer container, wherein the inner container isfilled with beverage and a valve is mounted in or on an opening in saidring, opening into said inner container.
 31. The method according toclaim 30, wherein the ring is welded onto the bag-in-container prior tofilling the bag-in-container and the valve is mounted to the ring afterfilling the bag-in-container with beverage.
 32. The bag-in-containeraccording to claim 21, wherein the opening extends through a wall of theouter container.
 33. The bag-in-container according to claim 21, whereincoupling elements are provided at opposite sides of said at least oneopening, seen in circumferential direction.
 34. The bag-in-containeraccording to claim 22, wherein the inner and outer preform areintegrally blow moulded to form a bag-in-container.
 35. Thebag-in-container according to claim 23, wherein the ring is mounted bywelding.
 36. The bag-in-container according to claim 24, wherein thering is mounted by welding.
 37. The bag-in-container according to claim24, wherein the at least one opening in the neck region is positioned ata level between the free edges of the neck portions of the inner andouter containers.
 38. The bag-in-container according to claim 27,wherein the valve is an aerosol valve and/or a valve mounted to the ringby clinching.
 39. The bag-in-container according to claim 28, whereinsaid wall part extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis ofthe bag-in-container or at least of the neck region thereof.
 40. Thebag-in-container according to claim 30, wherein the ring is mounted bywelding.
 41. The bag-in-container according to claim 40, wherein thering is mounted by spin welding.
 42. The bag-in-container according toclaim 21, wherein multiple coupling elements are provided, wherein thecoupling elements are provided spaced apart from each other in acircumferential direction of the relevant neck region.
 43. Abag-in-container comprising a neck region with an least one openingextending substantially radially there through, into a space between anouter container and an inner container adjacent thereto, wherein theneck region is provided with coupling elements for coupling of aconnecting device thereto, wherein the bag-in-container is manufacturedby blow moulding from at least an inner and an outer plastic preform,wherein the outer preform forms at least part of the outer container andthe inner preform forms at least part of the bag or inner container, andwherein a closure ring is mounted on the inner and outer containers, atleast closing off a space between said inner and outer container intowhich space said at least one opening opens, wherein the ring isprovided with at least one wall circumferential wall part, wherein teethare provided on said wall part for engaging a spin welding tool.
 44. Thebag-in-container according to claim 43, wherein the inner and outerpreform have been blow moulded.
 45. The bag-in-container according toclaim 43, wherein said wall part extends substantially parallel to alongitudinal axis of the bag-in-container or at least of the neck regionthereof.
 46. The bag-in-container according to claim 43, whereincoupling elements are provided at opposite sides of said at least oneopening, seen in circumferential direction.
 47. The bag-in-containeraccording to claim 43, wherein the inner and outer preform have beenintegrally blow moulded to form a bag-in-container.
 48. A method forforming a container, comprising integrally blow moulding abag-in-container from at least two super positioned preforms or anintegral, multilayer preform, wherein an outer container and an innercontainer or bag are formed, wherein prior to or after blow moulding thecontainer a closure ring is connected to the inner and/or outercontainer, closing off a space between the inner and outer containers,and wherein at least one opening is provided in a peripheral wall of aneck portion of the outer container, opening into said space, forintroducing gas under pressure into said space and compressing the innercontainer within the outer container, wherein the inner container isfilled with beverage and a valve is mounted in or on an opening in saidring, opening into said inner container.